Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most satisfying, and this Spaghetti with Butter and Parmesan is proof. Known in Italy as Pasta al Burro e Parmigiano, this dish is creamy, comforting, and comes together in just minutes with only a few ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy late-night snack, or even as a side dish, it’s the ultimate comfort food that celebrates the magic of pasta, butter, and cheese.
Ingredients:
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12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
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4 tbsp unsalted butter (plus more if desired)
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1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
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A splash of reserved pasta cooking water
Instructions:
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Cook the spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain. -
Melt the butter:
In the same pot (or a large skillet), add the butter and let it melt over low heat. -
Combine pasta and butter:
Add the drained spaghetti back into the pot with the melted butter. Toss well to coat each strand. -
Add Parmesan:
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese gradually, tossing the pasta to combine. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a creamy, silky sauce. -
Season and serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt. Add black pepper if you like. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.
✨ Serving Tip: Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal, or serve it simply with extra cheese and a glass of white wine for an elegant yet effortless dinner.
Would you like me to also give you a slightly richer variation of this dish with garlic and cream, or do you prefer keeping it traditional and simple?
